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The Perks and Drawbacks of Getting Older

Getting older used to have a negative connotation to it as people fixated on gray hair and nursing-home adventures. Currently, people live well into their 90s, which makes growing older just another part of life. There are some aspects of growing older that aren’t brought up very frequently, however. Take a moment to learn about the perks and drawbacks of getting older so that you’re prepared for this next chapter of life.

Cooler Body Temperatures

You’ve heard of the mass migrations by seniors to warmer climates, such as Arizona or Florida. This move isn’t just motivated by the desire for good weather. As you age, your body temperature cools down. The temperature change is incredibly small, but you’ll notice cold winters with more acuity in old age. You’ll want warmer temperatures to offset your body changes. Keep this in mind as retirement approaches.

Hormonal Changes

Childhood, adolescence and adulthood all had their varying hormonal levels. As you reach your 60s and beyond, you’ll continue to go through hormonal changes. Hair that never grew before will now appear, such as in ears or along jawlines. Your scalp may not produce such thick and luxurious locks anymore. Keep in mind that these changes are a new normal so you’ll need to keep up with different grooming techniques now.

Diminished Sleep Quality

As a senior, you still need about seven to nine hours of sleep each night. The difference is in the quality that you’ll experience. Aging means that you’ll enter fewer sessions of REM or rapid-eye movement sleep. This deep-sleep period is when you heal and achieve the best rest of the night. Because you don’t sleep as deeply as you once did, expect that a few naps are in your future as a senior.

General Contentment

Although scientists are still trying to pinpoint the reason for this aging benefit, being content with life is an aspect of growing older. For the most part, you’ll be more agreeable with others while solving problems before they become fights. This perk may be the result of experience or just knowing what’s important in life. Being laid-back in retirement will only improve your mental and physical well-being.

Working is Good For You

You may be looking forward to retirement and lazy days, but research says that work is actually good for you. It provides purpose and personal success in the mind. If you’ve retired from your profession, there’s nothing wrong with starting a business, learning a skill or applying for a part-time job. Keeping busy is stimulation that serves you well into your golden years.

It’s important to remember that every individual is unique. You’ll ultimately know your body better than anyone. If any issue or ailment arises that seems out of place, bring it up with your doctor. He or she can tell you if it’s normal or not. Being observant during your golden years will only make the time last longer with a better quality of life.